At the start of the new Erasmus+ programme (2021-2027), universities are struggling to meet the mobility expectations of their students. Although the programme promised to be more inclusive and accessible, the actual level of funding universities received in 2021 for Key Action 1 remained at the level of 2018 funding.
On 18 January the European Commission presented the European strategy for universities as a way to articulate a transformative vision for the higher education sector. The Guild welcomes the strategy as a framework which recognizes the rich potential and contribution of Europe’s universities to our society through research, education and innovation. We wish to thank Commissioner Gabriel and Vice-President Schinas for their constructive consultations with the sector and acknowledging many of the views expressed by The Guild’s presidents.
In their first meeting of 2022, The Guild Vice-Presidents discussed how the Pact for Research and Innovation, and the Council Conclusions on ERA Governance, would be implemented.
The application process for Horizon Europe calls requires further clarity while a more stable and user-friendly submission platform is needed, researchers and research support officers from The Guild universities highlight.
The Guild calls for university grant and financial managers to be included in any further evaluations of Horizon lump sum funding.